Macomb Office of Senior Services seeks to expand Friendly Caller Program

The Macomb County Office of Senior Services (OSS) is seeking to expand its Friendly Caller program – an initiative designed to help alleviate social isolation among seniors. The program, which was first piloted during the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizes a team of Friendly Caller volunteers who place phone calls to participating seniors for social engagement. Calls are informal and can range from a quick check-in and “hello” to a more in-depth conversation that addresses personal needs.

Sheila Cote, director of Office of Senior Services, initiated the Friendly Caller Program and is proud of its growth. “With our extensive experience with seniors, OSS is in a unique position to reach out to seniors through our Friendly Caller program. We currently have a group of 25 active persons connecting with over 275 seniors, and we are aiming to expand both the number of Friendly Callers, and the number of senior participants.”

“Making connections with our seniors is what the Friendly Caller Program is all about,” said Bob DeWar, volunteer program coordinator. “Macomb County is dedicated to our seniors. Our callers have what is essentially an ‘old-fashioned porch visit’ over the phone, and support participants by helping them locate available resources – including information on caregivers, housekeeping and food pantries.”

Friendly Caller volunteers are matched to senior participants and reach out to program participants one to two times each month for an informal social check-in call utilizing a phone system that keeps contact information of both parties, private and confidential. Staff follows up with any concerns or needs expressed during the call.

Friendly Caller is open to Macomb County seniors aged 60 and older. To enroll, interested seniors can call 586-469-5228. They can also visit the Friendly Caller webpage. Individuals interested in becoming a Friendly Caller volunteer can learn more and apply via the  Friendly Caller Volunteer webpage.